DETAILS of a multi million dollar re-design and refurbishment of its premium lounge in Terminal one at Abu Dhabi airport has been revealed by Etihad Airways.
More than three times the size of the existing facility, the new 855 square metre lounge will be able to cater for up to 200 customers and will feature an exclusive new area for first class customers as well as an improved business class lounge section.
First class customers will be able to eat prior to their flight in a new fine dining area, which offers an a la carte and a snack menu. All meals will be prepared in a new ‘open kitchen’ and be accompanied by a range of new wines and beverages.
Other features of the lounge include a TV area, a hi-tech computer and electronic games room, a viewing deck over-looking the airfield as well as a well-being zone where customers can have spa treatments.
Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ executive vice president of marketing said, “Our new Abu Dhabi lounge facilities represent a major investment and demonstrate the airline’s commitment to deliver world class premium products and services to its first and business class customers, both in flight and on the ground.
“We have employed the talents of designers and interior experts from across the world to create a world class facility at our Abu Dhabi base which we believe will be a massive hit with our customers and the envy of our competitors.”
The creation of the new lounge is being carried out in two co-ordinated phases to minimise disruption to customers. The first phase, construction of the brand new first class lounge area is due to open imminently.
Work on the second phase, the refurbishment of Etihad’s existing lounge to be used by the airline’s business class customers, will start shortly after the first class lounge has opened.
Several elements of the Terminal one lounge are expected to be incorporated into Etihad’s new Terminal three premium lounges, due to open later this year.